A two-week initiative to crack down on the “hard core” of motorists who continue to get behind the wheel while under the influence of drink or drugs was launched on Monday.

Officers from across Lothian and Borders are taking part in the national summer drink/drug drive campaign being spearheaded by the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland (ACPOS).

The purge, which runs until Monday, June 20, will see high- visibility patrols and unmarked police vehicles deployed on local roads.

In addition, road checks will also take place at various times and locations across the constabulary area.

The initiative will target those people who still think that it is acceptable to get behind the wheel while drunk or on drugs.

“This ‘hard core’ of offenders, who persist in flouting the law in the mistaken belief that they won’t get caught, will be the focus of our attention,” said Superintendent Alan Duncan, head of road policing.

“In particular, officers will actively seek to use powers that allow the courts to confiscate repeat offenders’ vehicles if they are caught drink or drug driving.

“Our officers will be carrying out marked and unmarked patrols and will be on the lookout for those who persist in getting behind the wheel while drunk or under the influence of drugs.

“Repeat offenders should be aware that they run the very real risk of losing their vehicles through the vehicle forfeiture scheme, and we will be asking members of the public to lend their assistance by reporting suspected drunk or drugged drivers.

“This campaign aims to drive the message home that we will not tolerate the behaviour of the minority of offenders who gamble with their own lives and the lives of other people.